(74) Healthy-Choices Vending Machines

           People become much more aware of their appearance and perception during adolescence.  Due to this, self-esteem becomes at risk.  Many adolescents feel as if their appearance is not good enough, and many will... [ view full abstract ]

           People become much more aware of their appearance and perception during adolescence.  Due to this, self-esteem becomes at risk.  Many adolescents feel as if their appearance is not good enough, and many will begin obsessive diets or develop eating disorders.  In an effort to encourage healthy eating, Sewanee: University of the South has started a campaign for Healthy-Choices Vending Machines. 209 students were surveyed on their experiences with vending machines on campus.  Due to a lack of accessibility to food later at night, many participants admitted to eating unhealthy snack options. Due to bad weather or distance, students admitted to using the vending machine as a source for their meals. Survey results showed that the majority of students had a desire for healthier, more convenient food options. Providing healthy-choices vending machines reduces the risk of binge eating unhealthy food and students feeling guilt over their snack choice.  The campaign for healthy-choices vending machines is vital because it raises awareness for the lack of healthy options, which promotes an unhealthy standard of living.

            Keywords: Healthy eating, adolescence, eating disorders